LETTER: Catskill Interpretive Center site already a vital area

I am not able to attend either of the public meetings concerning the proposed Catskill Interpretive Center. Nevertheless, I have an opinion on its uses.

What is there now is not a "bridge to nowhere." For years the area has been used by local residents for a variety of reasons. I have seen mothers teaching their daughters the parts of car engines and how to change tires before the first driving lesson there; school bus drivers checking their brakes; older couples taking daily walks; elderly bike riders following doctors' orders and riding there; model planes being flown; wild flowers studied through the seasons, etc. I saw two researchers investigating tree species there. People picnic and stop for their morning coffee break. Best of all to me and many others, it is a socializing meeting place for people and their dogs.

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I love that place as is, but must accept change if it is truly necessary and does not ignore the current importance of the area. I, and I am sure others, would not like a sterile, structured project there, but one that accommodates all the uses a Catskill population has for a public area.

Visitors do stop at the kiosk in the front portion of the area, and it is a very good one. It is informative, attractive and has a little seating if needed. It was a welcome addition. But, please be careful what you plan for, or you will lose what you have already gained.